Trampolines for Kids – Is There a Safe Trampoline?

Trampolines for kids – is there a ‘safest trampoline’ really?

Now that the weather is finally warm and we are heading outdoors, trampolines are being assembled across Canada much to many physicians’ chagrin.

Yes they can be dangerous, but trampolines can be a healthy activity as long as parents take special precautions.

For me it’s a delicate balance – my desire that all children should be active and get the recommended 60 min of activity a day, with the safety (or lack there-of) of trampolines. For more on health habits for your kids, click here.

Injuries

I am biased of course – I see trampoline injuries in the emergency department many times each summer. But the truth is, it isn’t just my bias. Many children do sustain fractures, dislocations, head injuries and lacerations each year. Most emergency departments in Canada see 50-100 trampoline injuries a year, some with serious consequences requiring admission and surgery.

Who is most likely to get hurt?

According to the Canada Safety Council, children 5-14 years of age are most likely to injure themselves on a trampoline. Most injuries are from landing improperly after a jump or flip, jumping into another child or falling off the apparatus. Most accidents take place when there is no parental supervision.

How to stay safe

Yes they can be dangerous, but trampolines can be a healthy activity as long as parents take special precautions.

Make sure equipment is safe. Your trampoline should meet ASTM requirements. Though not regulated by Canada per se, this is the best we have

Keep the trampoline far clear of trees and swimming pools

Check for damage every day! Check the hooks, springs, bed and frames to ensure no wear and tear.

The Canada Safety Council recommends only children over age six years use a trampoline. There are much smaller toddler trampolines available for small children

ALWAYS SUPERVISE your children while on the trampoline

One child at a time

No flips – I know, your child will be mad

No somersaults – same here, sorry

Don’t jump off the trampoline

Keep a mesh enclosure on the trampoline to avoid falling or jumping out

Don’t keep a ladder against the trampoline, so as not to attract young children when no one is watching

If you have a medical emergency, call a physician or qualified healthcare provider, or CALL 911 immediately. Under no circumstances should you attempt self-treatment based on anything you have seen or read on this Website. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed and qualified health provider in your jurisdiction concerning any questions you may have regarding any information obtained from this Website and any medical condition you believe may be relevant to you or to someone else. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website.